Komoot is awesome. If you're a cyclist and have a Garmin watch or cycling computer, it's likely you've already come across the app; but if you haven't, I recommend giving it a try, especially now that Komoot launched Trail View – a 'unique proprietary technology that brings maps to life'.
How, you might ask? Komoot scanned over 15 million images from its 28 million users and used an image recognition machine learning algorithm to curate these images. Showing up as green dots on the Trail View map layer in Komoot, when clicked, the images contributed by other Komoot users who have been on that trail already are presented to other users. Here it is in action:
If you're concerned that you'll be presented with a bunch of underexposed, crappy images, rest assured that not all user images will pass the Trail View test. Trail View scans all uploaded pictures and shows only those with paths and trails; it eliminates images that do not fit the criteria (i.e. images that include faces, animals, landscapes, buildings etc.).
What's in for you, dear Komoot user? According to Komoot, Trail View 'adds an additional dimension to route planning, enabling users to verify what the trail looks like so they can make informed decisions about whether a specific trail is suitable for their sport or level of experience'. In short, it makes planning unknown routes easier and, most importantly, safer.
Using Trail View, clear information about the condition and composition of the trail can help mountain bikers choose the right equipment, hiking families and groups to reduce risk, and gravel cyclists to avoid paths with rocks – 'increasing the likelihood of Type 1 fun all-round', Komoot adds.
For more info, visit Komoot (opens in new tab) today!
